Expedition Chilean Fjords | Cruise

Valparaiso/Chile, departure 20.00 hrs

Relaxation day at Sea.

Over millions of years, where multiple tectonic plates converge, the northern and southern fjord regions of Chile were formed. The intricacies of this watery labyrinth can be most vividly experienced aboard a small expedition vessel like the HANSEATIC inspiration. With expert judgement, the captain and crew navigate fascinating passages through the intricate fjord system. Framed by colossal glaciers and majestic granite mountains, unparalleled natural wonders and unique ecosystems await you at the end of the world. These hidden treasures are waiting to be discovered, promising unforgettable experiences with each day of your expedition.

The journey begins in the charming town of Puerto Montt, nestled amidst snow-capped volcanoes. Here, the awe-inspiring natural phenomena surrounding the area are exemplified by the Petrohué Waterfalls and the Osorno Volcano, with its distinctive snow-covered cone. For the adventurous, white-water rafting on the Petrohué River provides an exhilarating experience. A kayak tour in the La Poza Lagoon transports you to the habitat of southern beeches and kingfishers. The towns of Puerto Varas and Frutillar showcase their German heritage, with the renowned Teatro del Lago and even Black Forest gâteau as a testament to the Chilean-German partnership.

The Isla Chiloé is famous for its wooden churches, designated as UNESCO World Heritage sites, and "Palafitos," the stilt houses of fishermen. The colourful villages and churches make striking impressions against the rugged coastline. Nature enthusiasts can explore the Chiloé National Park by hiking or cycling. Navigating through the northern fjords, you'll enjoy the finest views from the Inspiration Walk and the many open deck spaces. In the off-the-beaten-path settlement of Puerto Edén, you'll meet the remaining 60 inhabitants, including the last descendants of the Kawésqar, an indigenous seafaring people. Surrounded by pristine wilderness, you can immerse yourself in the stunning natural beauty on a walking trail.

From here, the following days will be dedicated to the awe-inspiring glaciers. The excitement builds as the ship performs complex nautical manoeuvres to bring you to breathtaking sights, including the passage by the Pio XI Glacier. Marvel at the imposing ice mass, one of South America’s largest, as you observe its bizarrely crevassed, blue-white splendour from a Zodiac boat.

Discover the untouched wonders of the southern fjords of Chile, a world where the icy blue of the glaciers and the dramatic wilderness meet. Admire the majestic Bernal Glacier, proudly adorning the backdrop in silent grandeur, and visit the picturesque town of Puerto Natales, the gateway to the famous Torres del Paine National Park. Experience the exciting journey through the Kirke Narrows, which with its narrowness and unpredictable currents presents a challenging passage, before immersing yourself in the Strait of Magellan, known for its historical significance and as a natural gateway to the Antarctic continent. Crossing between the Tucker Islands and through the fjords surrounded by the sublime Andes, you will be presented with unforgettable impressions and encounters with the unique flora and fauna of this remote part of the world.

Punta Arenas is a vibrant metropolis at the southern tip of Chile and is considered the gateway to the wild beauty of Patagonia. As one of the southernmost cities in the world, it presents itself with a mix of colonial architecture, colorful houses, and a history closely linked to navigation and Antarctic expeditions. Punta Arenas enchants its visitors with a spacious charm, wind-swept shores, and a panorama that hints at the infinity of the nearby Southern Ocean.

The Garibaldi Glacier, an impressive mass of ice in the remote wilderness of Chile, is a highlight of the Patagonian fjords. This glacier, pouring into the sea with its shimmering ice and breaking icebergs, offers a dramatic natural spectacle. Surrounded by steep mountains and untouched nature, the sight of the Garibaldi Glacier is an unforgettable experience and symbolizes the rugged beauty of southern Patagonia. It is a magnet for nature and photography enthusiasts seeking the raw power and silence of this pristine landscape.

Relaxation at sea/Sailing through the Beagle Channel

Ushuaia/Argentina, arrival 6.00 hrs | Charter flight to Buenos Aires